Student of the Week: Mariel Washington
As a parent, student, and a 12-year veteran of the Army, Mariel Washington says South Texas College enabled her to meet new people as she eyes a career in health services management.
Originally from California, Mariel says she arrived in the Rio Grande Valley with her mother. She decided to attend STC after her son started the dual credit program at Edinburg High School.
After receiving her certificate and associate in accounting from STC, Mariel says she is studying business administration at the college while concurrently working for her bachelor degree in accounting at UTRGV.
“My experience here at STC has actually been really smooth,” she says. “The veterans here have helped me branch out and meet new people and there are lots of great programs here including the Student Veterans Association where we go and do community outreach and volunteering. They are very welcoming and helpful in order to get you where you need to be.”
The goal, she says, is to utilize her degree in accounting and enter a career in health service management.
“It’s never too late to get your education,” Mariel says. “Don’t ever give up. There are too many resources at this college including the CLE, which offers free tutoring. You even have free tutoring at the library. You have to always reach out to everybody you can, and you have to realize that it’s one step and one day at a time.”
“The veterans here have helped me branch out and meet new people and there are lots of great programs here including the Student Veterans Association where we go and do community outreach and volunteering. They are very welcoming and helpful in order to get you where you need to be.”
Top three accomplishments:
“I am proud that I finished my associate degree in accounting.”
“I have also been able to maintain my GPA with the course load I have picked for myself which includes taking eight classes.”
“I have also been able to balance my school and kids.”